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21 Reasons Why do Dogs Tuck their Tails? | Dogs

Why do Dogs Tuck in their Tail?

Do you ever wonder why dogs tuck their tails between their legs? There are a few different reasons why dogs might do this. In some cases, it could be an indication of fear or submission. In other cases, it could be a sign of aggression. Let’s take a closer look at this behavior and find out what might be causing your dog to tuck his tail! Why do Dogs Tuck their Tails?

21 Reasons Why do Dogs Tuck their Tails? | Dogs 1

Why do Dogs Tuck in their Tail?

  1. Fear – Dogs tuck their tails for a variety of reasons. One reason is because they are afraid or feel threatened. When a dog feels scared, it may tuck its tail between its legs as a way to make itself look smaller and less threatening. This can help the dog to avoid conflict or confrontation.
  2. Submission – Dogs may also tuck their tails when they are feeling submissive. If a dog perceives another dog as being dominant, it may tuck its tail as a sign of submission. This shows that the subordinate dog recognizes the dominance of the other dog and is willing to back down.
  3. Anxious – dogs may tuck their tails when they are uncomfortable or anxious. For example, if a strange person approaches them, they may tuck their tail
  4. Aggression – Some dogs may tuck their tail when they are aggressive or angry. If a dog is feeling provoked, it might turn its head and tuck its tail in preparation for an attack. This response is often seen in fighting dogs that were specifically bred to be aggressive and fight other dogs.
  5. Happiness – Dog’s tails can also communicate happiness and excitement! For example, some breeds such as Huskies have naturally curved tails that curve up over the back of the dog. When these types of dogs get excited, you’ll see them hold their tails up high with a lot of motion from side-to-side . This shows how happy they are! Other breeds will wag their entire hind end when they’re happy which make it look like their tail is tucked up even more strongly.
  6. Pain – Dogs may tuck their tails when they are in pain or feeling sick. If a dog’s tail is tucked, you should take it to the vet to make sure there isn’t something wrong with them such as arthritis or another medical condition causing discomfort and pain. In most cases though this response will only occur if there has been some sort of injury that causes physical trauma before being noticed by others around them so make sure your pup gets properly checked out first!
  7. Cold – Dogs may tuck their tails when it’s cold outside. This is usually seen in breeds with shorter hair like Dachshunds, Shih Tzus and Bichon Frises. When the temperature drops too low, these dogs will pull their tails up close to their bodies in order to keep warm.
  8. Ill – Dogs may tuck their tails when they are feeling ill. If your dog is tucking their tail and also displays other signs of illness, it is best to contact your vet.
  9. Depressed – Dogs who have been abused in the past may sometimes keep their tail between their legs as part of a depressed state. This same behavior may occur if you have recently given up on one of his favorite things like going for walks to do something else he does not enjoy, such as obedience training.
  10. Sickness – Sick dogs will tend to keep their tails down between their legs as a way of protecting their vital organs from harm.
  11. Stress – A dog’s tail tucked between its legs can also be a sign of stress. If your dog is feeling overwhelmed by changes in his environment (a new baby, a move, etc.), he may hide behind his tail for protection.
  12. Parasites – Parasites, such as fleas and ticks, can cause a dog to tuck its tail. These pests often bite the dog’s rump, causing him to feel itchy and uncomfortable.
  13. Stomach Problems – Stomach problems, such as an upset stomach or constipation, can cause a dog to tuck its tail. If the problem persists for more than 24 hours, you should take your pet to see the veterinarian.
  14. Injuries – Dogs may also tuck their tails when they are injured or in pain. You should always check for injuries if your dog is exhibiting this behavior.
  15. Painful Tail Docking: Some dogs have been bred with short tails that look like little nubs instead of long fluffy ones. These breeds include Corgis and Basset Hounds which typically keep their tails tucked between their legs as part of normal body language anyway so it’s hard to tell if they’re doing it because they’re feeling ill, stressed, or just plain old comfortable.
  16. Abuse – Dogs who have been abused in the past may sometimes keep their tail, their spirit has been broken and they are constantly fearful
  17. Diarrhea – If a dog has diarrhea, he will often tuck his tail.
  18. Constipation – if you dog is constipated, they may tuck their tail to try and keep the area clean.
  19. Boredom or Anxiety – if a dog is bored or anxious, they may tuck their tail as a way of trying to calm themselves down.
  20. Sore Bum – if a dog’s bum is sore, they may tuck their tail to try and keep the area clean.
  21. Female not in Heat – If your female is not ready to be bred, she may tuck her tail to let other males know that she is not interested.

Final Thoughts – Why do Dogs Tuck their Tails?

Conclusion: All dogs have different personalities, just like people do! The next time your pet curls its tail between his legs, stop and think about why he might be doing it—it could mean anything from fearfulness. So there you have it!

There are many reasons why your dog might tuck its tail – some more obvious than others. But next time you see your pup doing this strange behavior, take a second to try and figure out what’s going on internally for them. Chances are they’re trying to communicate something important to you!

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